Homosexuality In Singapore: Still A Taboo?

Singaporeans seem to be more tolerant towards gays and lesbians, according to a study by NTU researchers.

The poll of 950 people, conducted in 2010, follows up on an earlier survey in 2005. The results show a slight decline in the percentage of respondents who hold negative attitudes towards homosexuals here – from 68.6 per cent in 2005 to 64.5 per cent five years later.

The numbers show that attitudes are still mainly negative and that the change over the five-year period is relatively minimal. But the results of the study appear to reflect a trend towards greater tolerance.

One test of this tolerance is the debate that surrounds Section 377A, a part of Singapore’s law that criminalises sex between two men, as two cases that concern it are being brought before the High Court soon.

What about your own experience? How have popular TV shows like Modern Family and Glee which depict gay and lesbian characters and couples influenced your personal attitude, if at all?

Do you find that society’s attitudes in this regard are changing too fast, or too slowly? What would the future be like for Singaporean gays and lesbians?

Think with us, and share your comments below.